1964 Pontiac Tempest vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Pontiac Tempest. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Pontiac Tempest would be higher. At 3,524 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Pontiac Tempest is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Pontiac Tempest (118 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 Pontiac Tempest should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Pontiac Tempest weights approximately 530 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Pontiac Tempest is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1964 Pontiac Tempest. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Pontiac Tempest | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tempest | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3524 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2410 mm |
